China loans to Philippines raise fears
THE $6-billion official development assistance (ODA) obtained by the Duterte administration from the Chinese government has raised fears among some, who believe this might turn out to be disadvantageous to the Philippines rather than beneficial.
– SunStar

PH still the leading economy in Southeast Asia as GDP grows by 6.4 percent in Q1
Even though its growth slowed due to lack of election spending, the Philippine economy sustained its lead in Southeast Asia, according to official data released on Thursday.
– Manila Bulletin

Philippines economic growth outlook remains strong -c.bank governor
Philippine central bank governor Amando Tetangco said on Thursday that the outlook for growth remains strong even as the economy expanded less than anticipated in the first quarter.
– Reuters

P4.6M micro enterprises to help energize economy
Six micro-enterprise projects worth P4.6 million under the Provincial Project Management and Implementing Unit of Negros Occidental are now fully operational this quarter, aiming to energize the economy in the country side, PPMIU Head Ma. Lina Sanogal said.
– The Visayan Daily Star

Palace confirms PH no longer accepts grants from EU
Malacañan on Thursday confirmed that the Philippines will no longer accept grants from the European Union (EU) to show that the Philippines is an independent nation.
– Manila Bulletin

Palace clarifies: PH not accepting EU grants ‘with conditions’
The Philippines clarifies it will continue to accept grants, like humanitarian aid, that will not come with conditions it finds ‘objectionable’
– Rappler

PH GDP slowed to 6.4% in Q1 of 2017
Amid recovery in the agriculture sector, robust trade and manufacturing growth as well as sustained strong domestic demand, the Philippine economy expanded 6.4 percent year-on-year in the first quarter, the government reported Thursday.
– Philippine Daily Inquirer

Citrus industry surprised by growth in unfamiliar new markets of Philippines, Canada
The peak body for Australia’s citrus industry says it has been taken by surprise by the success of two formerly “non-existent” markets that have leapt to become among its top export destinations.
– ABC

Palawan town to sue miner for clearing forest
One of the large-scale mining companies operating in Palawan province cut more than 15,000 trees in Brooke’s Point town despite the cancellation of its environmental clearance certificate (ECC) and the absence of permits from the local government, local officials said.
– Philippine Daily Inquirer

Affordable policies for young, low-wage earners
FINANCIAL advisors are promoting affordable and customized insurance policies to draw more Filipinos to save and get protected.
– SunStar

Feature photo Brian Evans
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